Dealing with toddler emotions. I want to warn you that this is not a post about helping your toddler deal with their fear of monsters. That post may come later on when we have to handle the fear of monsters, but we aren’t quite there yet. This is a post about toddlers who have meltdowns like monsters.
I am sure you have heard the term “terrible twos” before. Basically, it means that when your cute little bundle of joy turns two, they become a terror. If you would like to read our experience with the terrible twos click here.
And what do I mean by a terror? Well in a blink of an eye these little people can go from happy and smiling to bawling and screaming. So what type of meltdown monsters are there?
The “Wrong Cup” monster
Boy, do they lose it when they are given the wrong cup. Of course, every toddler has a favorite color or character and when they have to use a cup that is not their favorite, their world is ending in their minds.
This could also happen with a specific toy, a certain outfit or pretty much anything that they want.
The “I am fighting a nap, but actually need a nap” monster
Toddlers still need naps, if they miss a nap they become grouchy. My boys are notorious for fighting naps but actually need one to feel refreshed. Even my three year old still needs naps and honestly, most adults need a nap. So avoiding that monster is best. Or even just allowing quiet time where they can lay down and rest for a bit is great for everyone.
The “Let me do” monster
Toddlers are wanting more independence as they grow. There are a few things that they are able to do themselves and then others that we as parents would like to continue doing for them. But if they think they are capable of doing it then the “Let me do” monster shows.
The “NO” monster
This is a lovely age when they learn the fact that they can say “no”. You ask them to clean up toys, “no”. You ask them to go change, “no”. You ask them anything they will most likely say “no”. And when you make them do what you ask, then the monster rears its ugly head and the meltdown will break out.
The “I don’t know how to handle what I am feeling” monster
Toddlers are just figuring out their emotions, but do not know how to handle them. When they are upset, mad, frustrated, or sad, they usually just tend to cry or throw a fit.
Conclusion
This is such a pivotal time for our little beings. They are just starting to talk and may not be able to communicate what they want, which can lead to a meltdown.
Toddlers need to experience emotions and understand the appropriate ways to deal with those emotions. Emotions are difficult, even for adults, so the sooner they understand emotions the better.
In the moment of the meltdown is a great time to have a conversation about what they are feeling and how they should handle that emotion.
Now don’t get me wrong I know I will look back on this time and miss it greatly. But it definitely can be a hard time for both the toddler and parent.
I hope you found something relatable in this post and able to help your toddler through these difficult years. Dealing with toddler emotions.
If you enjoyed this post also check out Brushing Teeth for Toddlers and Signs Toddler is Ready to Potty Train.
Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram.
Love it? Pin it!
24 Comments
GiGi Eats
THIS IS MY LIFE right now. LIFEEEEE – granted my baby is PRETTY good, but hot damn there are moments where my husband and I are like GAHHHHH!!!! Right now he’s having seperation anxiety from my husband so any time he is not connected to him at the hip he FLIPS!
Julia Hess
YES! Why do they always want Dad?
Tara Pittman
Toddlers have a hard time communicating so they have tantrums. It is hard to deal with but it will pass.
Julia Hess
So very true. My little guy is just starting to really pick up words, but if he doesn’t know the word for what he wants, watch out lol.
Candace Hampton
I worked in a daycare for a long time and I totally know these monsters! Kids feelings are so sensitive and erratic, but they are so sweet and innocent. It takes a lot of patience to deal with these monsters. Kids are cute for a reason!
Julia Hess
They are so sweet and innocent. They sure make life fun and interesting.
WorldInEyes
Great information you have mentioned in your blog post…truly do agree with you and really found it quite useful and interesting one..glad you shared about it with us…
Julia Hess
Thank you.
Amanda
My son just turned 1 and I feel like the tantrums have already started! Thanks for sharing this!
Julia Hess
Yep pretty much! They are too smart.
Chloe
I certainly don’t miss the “monster” period from my children who are toddlers, but one thing I will say… When you look back, you will forget about the struggles, and remember the good. So for those of you who are going through right now, make sure you have the coping mechanism and knowing that it is a phase that will soon pass =)
Julia Hess
I know I’ll miss this time. They grow up way too fast.
Emily
As a toddler teacher to 18-24 month olds, I have definitely experienced seeing all of these “monsters” in toddlers.
Julia Hess
Oh I am sure! That is prime monster phase.
Heather
This is a fantastic post! I work from home and have really been struggling with the added dynamic of having my daughters, 5 and 11, home with me. Add in that our children have basically been taken away from all their normal routines including social activities, sports and friends, I’m pretty sure all children have turned into little monsters at this point!
Julia Hess
So very true. I am sure this is a very trying time for everyone!
Monidipa
This post reminded me of my younger neice. My God, she was a total monster, luckily my sister is wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy too patient. She managed both the girls plus my older neice also helped a lot cause when the younger was 2 the older one was 9.
Cristina
Yup, I know exactly what you are saying. We’re in the middle of the “terrible twos” and experienced the “wonderful” tantrums. But, as you said, we will remember this period fondly.
Rachel
Oh my gosh. We’re on kid three and let me tell you no matter how different their temperaments have been, THEY HAVE ALL GONE THROUGH TODDLER MONSTER phase.
Julia Hess
Haha it never seems to fail!
Peachy @ The Peach Kitchen
My daughters are older now but I can all relate to this phase! Great tips.
Julia Hess
Thank you!
Pingback:
Pingback: